Thomas Burns

Thomas Burns is a Professor of Illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design, serving as Associate Chair from 2022–2025 and Professor since 2016. He has held roles including Adjunct Professor at SCAD and professional design leadership positions at Accenture, BellSouth, and Horizon Software International. As owner of Thomas Burns Studio, he merges academic and industry expertise.

• Education:
  • M.F.A. in Illustration, Savannah College of Art and Design
  • M.A. in Advertising, Michigan State University
  • M.B.A. in Management, Michigan State University
  • B.F.A. in Graphic Design, University of Florida

His research focuses on Illustration with interdisciplinary applications in Game Design, Advertising, and Therapeutic Art. His work explores psychological dimensions in visual storytelling and practical applications of design in enterprise settings.

Thomas’s publications reflect trends at the intersection of digital media and emotional engagement, notably analyzing game character design through psychological frameworks (2005) and therapeutic visual narratives (2004). His earlier work (1992) addresses local cultural representation.

Key scientific recognitions include:

• Multiple accolades from the Society of Illustrators and 3×3 ProShow
• Adobe Design Achievement Awards semifinalist (2013)
• SCADDY silver medal in advertising illustration (2013)
• Creative Quarterly and Applied Arts Awards distinctions